Transcript Preconception in Adolescents

Preconception Health and
Care in Adolescents
Nan Streeter
AMCHP Web Conference
September 27, 2007
What is Preconception Health
and Care (PHC)?
PHC is a national initiative to improve
pregnancy outcomes by starting care
BEFORE pregnancy
What is Preconception Health
and Care (PHC)?
The goal is to improve the health of
women [adolescent girls] and
couples, before conception of a first
or subsequent pregnancy.
PHC Recommendations
The recommendations focus on
changes in
• consumer knowledge
• clinical practice
• public health programs
• health-care financing
• data and research activities
PHC Recommendations
Can be found on web at:
http://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/preview/
mmwrhtml/rr5506a1.htm
Why PHC in Adolescence?
• PHC – really is primary care and not
only about childbearing
• PHC is about planning, preparing,
knowing, deciding, doing, being
proactive for one’s future….
Why PHC in Adolescence?
For adolescents, it is an opportunity for

Education and awareness

Assessment of risky behaviors

Preparation for parenthood (or not)
Why PHC in Adolescence?
Adolescents are establishing behaviors that may
impact them their entire lives
•
Smoking, drug use?
•
Sexual activity?
•
Adequate physical activity and healthy eating?
•
Mental health?
Get ‘em young!


PHC is really about ensuring future
health – regardless of pregnancy
Adolescents plan for college, trade
school, jobs, why not plan for future
health for themselves and any
children they may have?
PHC
Results in
• Healthier mothers and babies
• Healthier families
• Reduction in chronic diseases, such as
diabetes, hypertension, obesity, etc.